ABSTRACT
The breeding period of cat fishes, climbing perches and murrels in India is variable. Environmental factors play an
important role in regulating reproduction in fishes. Choosing a successful synthetic hormone involves the selection
of effective hormone formulations, proper duration of hormonal treatment and timing of the hormone
administration. Induced breeding of cat fishes, climbing perches and murrels of India by various hormonal
analogues is reviewed based on published literature. Synthetic hormones viz., ovaprim and ovatide are successfully
being tested (in place of pituitary extract) for the induced breeding of fishes. Since, newly formulated inducing
agents are also being tested for the induced breeding performance by various researchers in different parts of the
country, under different climatic conditions, with varying degree of success. These synthetic hormones have
following advantages over pituitary extract: ready to use in liquid form, consistent potency, stored at room
temperature, stable with long shelf life and single dose requirement. Although natural spawning is the preferred
method for breeding cultivated fresh water fishes, induced breeding is necessary to control timing and synchrony of
egg production.